Neil Blomkamp Exits RoboCop Returns

It was announced last summer that Neil Blomkamp (District 9) has been hired to direct a reboot/sequel to RoboCop, and though it looked like things were going smoothly for production, Blomkamp has just announced his exit from the project.

We don’t really know why MGM is in a hurry to get this project made, but they must really want it done if they’re not willing to wait for Blomkamp to finish his current project. I mean, even WB put Akira on hold so Taika Waititi can make Thor: Love and Thunder.

As for the story, it was said to disregard all the sequels (and the 2014 reboot), and act as a direct follow-up to the original RoboCop from 1987. Peter Weller was said to return, and we would have seen the original suit make a comeback as well.

If anything, losing Blomkamp is a huge waste for the studio. Though Chappie and Elysium weren’t the same solid hits as District 9 was, they were still visual masterpieces—perfect for something like RoboCop Returns. We don’t know who MGM is going to have takeover the project from Blomkamp, but I hope they find someone who can bring on the sci-fi as well as the Rated R elements.

Is Rogue One’s Gareth Edwards busy?

We don’t have a release date for RoboCopReturns, but if MGM wants the production to start soon, they could be aiming for a 2021 release. Until they find a new director, I guess the film will just have to sit and wait.